Is September a Good Time To Visit Beijing, China

Posted by CelebrateZone.com on Mon, Jun 10, 2024

Pros of Visiting Beijing in September:

  • Pleasant Weather: September is a transitional month in Beijing, marking the shift from the hot and humid summer to the cool and dry autumn. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

  • Fewer Crowds: Beijing is renowned for its bustling crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. In September, the crowds are generally smaller, allowing you to explore popular attractions without long wait times.

  • Vibrant Autumn Colors: As the temperatures start to cool, the leaves of trees in Beijing’s parks and gardens begin to turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque landscape.

  • Mid-Autumn Festival: Also known as the Moon Festival, this traditional Chinese holiday usually falls in September. During this time, the city is adorned with lanterns and celebrations, offering a unique cultural experience.

  • Affordable Travel: September is considered a shoulder season in Beijing, which means lower airfares, hotel rates, and fewer surcharges on tours and activities compared to peak tourist seasons.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Air Quality: Beijing’s air quality can be poor, especially during certain weather conditions. It is advisable to check the air quality index before your trip and take necessary precautions, such as wearing a face mask if needed.

  • Possible Rain: September can experience some rainy days, so it’s a good idea to pack a raincoat or umbrella.

  • Peak Tourist Season Begins Soon: Keep in mind that the peak tourist season in Beijing typically starts in October, so the number of visitors may increase towards the end of September.

  • Book Early: Although September is generally less crowded, it’s still a good idea to book your flights and accommodation in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

Overall, September can be a great time to visit Beijing if you prefer moderate weather, fewer crowds, and a chance to witness the transition into autumn.

Weather In Beijing During September

The weather in Beijing, China in September is generally pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. The average temperature ranges from 20°C (68°F) to 26°C (79°F), with lows dropping to around 15°C (59°F) at night. September is considered to be the best time to visit Beijing, as the weather is mild and the city is less crowded than during the peak tourist season in July and August.

Here are some specific weather conditions you can expect in Beijing during September:

  • Temperature: The average temperature in September is 23°C (73°F), with highs of 26°C (79°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F).
  • Rainfall: September is a relatively dry month in Beijing, with an average of only 50mm of rainfall. However, there can be occasional showers or thunderstorms, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat.
  • Humidity: The humidity in Beijing in September is typically moderate, ranging from 50% to 65%.
  • Wind: The wind speed in September is generally light to moderate, averaging around 15km/h (9mph).
  • Sunshine: Beijing gets an average of 7 hours of sunshine per day in September.

Overall, the weather in Beijing in September is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Be sure to pack light clothing for the warm days and a jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.

Things To Do In Beijing In September

  1. Mid-Autumn Festival: Also called the Moon Festival, this celebration takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which usually falls in September. It is a time for family reunions, mooncakes, and lanterns. Popular activities during the festival include watching lion dances, enjoying lantern displays, and admiring the full moon.

  2. Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition: This large-scale gardening and horticultural exhibition is held every four years in Beijing. The 2023 Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition is scheduled to take place from September 29th to October 7th, 2023. Visitors can expect to see stunning flower displays, garden installations, and exhibits from around the world.

  3. Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF): The BJIFF is an annual film festival held in Beijing. It typically takes place in September and showcases a wide range of Chinese and international films. The festival includes screenings, awards ceremonies, and industry events.

  4. Beijing Fashion Week: Beijing Fashion Week is a semi-annual fashion event that showcases the latest collections from Chinese and international designers. It takes place twice a year, in March and September. The September edition of Beijing Fashion Week usually takes place in late September or early October.

  5. National Day of the People’s Republic of China: This national holiday is celebrated on October 1st and marks the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. While not unique to September, it’s worth noting for the various celebrations and activities that take place in Beijing during this holiday, such as parades, fireworks, and cultural performances.

  6. Beijing Design Week: This annual event celebrates design and innovation in Beijing. It features exhibitions, workshops, talks, and other events related to design, architecture, fashion, and technology. Beijing Design Week typically takes place in late September or early October.

  7. Beijing International Tourism Festival: This annual festival showcases Beijing’s tourism resources and attractions. It includes a variety of events, such as cultural performances, tourism expos, and promotional activities. The festival typically takes place in September or October.

Tourism In Beijing, China During September

Weather

  • September is a great time to visit Beijing, as the weather is generally mild and sunny. The average temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit), with highs in the upper 20s (mid-80s) and lows in the mid-teens (low 60s).
  • There is little rainfall in September, so you’re unlikely to experience any major downpours. However, the air can be quite dry, so it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle with you when you’re sightseeing.

Crowds

  • September is a shoulder season in Beijing, which means that there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer months. This makes it a great time to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.
  • However, it’s important to note that some popular attractions, such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China, can still be quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays.

Activities

  • There are plenty of things to see and do in Beijing in September. Here are a few ideas:
    • Visit the Forbidden City, the former home of the Chinese emperors.
    • Climb the Great Wall of China, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
    • Take a walk through Jingshan Park, a beautiful park with stunning views of the city.
    • Visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • See a Peking opera performance.

Costs

  • Prices for flights, hotels, and attractions are generally lower in September than during the peak summer months. However, it’s still a good idea to book your accommodations and tours in advance, especially if you’re traveling during a holiday.

Tips

  • If you’re planning to visit Beijing in September, be sure to pack light clothing, as well as a jacket or sweater for the evenings.
  • It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Be sure to drink plenty of water, as the air can be quite dry in September.
  • If you’re planning to visit any temples or other religious sites, be sure to dress respectfully.